Tabaruzaka Park is one of Japan’s most historically significant sites, known as the fiercest battlefield of the Satsuma Rebellion (Seinan War) in 1877. This decisive conflict pitted the Meiji government forces against the last samurai of the Satsuma domain led by Saigō Takamori, ultimately marking the official end of the samurai era.

One of the park’s most famous artifacts is the “Kachiai-dan” (colliding bullets)—a rare phenomenon in which bullets fired from opposing sides collided mid-air, flattening and fusing together. These bullets are preserved and displayed in the Tabaruzaka Seinan Civil War Museum, serving as compelling evidence of the extraordinary density and intensity of gunfire during the battle.

Due to prolonged heavy rainfall, firearms often malfunctioned during the fighting. In response, the government formed a special sword-based unit known as the Battotai, composed mainly of former samurai loyal to the Meiji state. Their close-combat sword battles against the Satsuma forces became legendary and remain one of the most famous sword-fighting episodes in Japanese military history.

The park also features the House of Bullet Marks, a reconstruction of a Matsushita family warehouse riddled with countless bullet holes, vividly illustrating the devastation of the battlefield. Memorials such as the Tabaruzaka Suretsuhi honor the fallen, while a poignant statue of a young supply-carrying boy reminds visitors that civilians and children were deeply affected and involved in the conflict.

Today, Tabaruzaka Park is a peaceful public space. In spring, cherry blossoms and azaleas bloom across the grounds, offering panoramic views of Kumamoto City and a reflective setting where visitors can appreciate both nature and history.

• By car: About 40 minutes from JR Kumamoto Station (ample parking available)

• By train: JR Kagoshima Line to Tabaruzaka Station, then a 30-minute uphill walk

• The walking route from the station is uphill; bring water and wear comfortable shoes

• Allow at least 1.5–2 hours for the museum and park

• Try local produce nearby, especially Ueki watermelon, a regional specialty

• Highly recommended for visitors interested in samurai and Meiji-era history

Admission Fee: 

• Seinan Civil War Museum:

• Adults: 300 yen

• Children: 100 yen

• Park grounds: Free admission

Opening Time:

• Museum: 09:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:30)

• Park: Open daily